the things that cannot be changed,
Courage to change the things
which should be changed,
and the Wisdom to distinguish
the one from the other."
--from the original Serenity Prayer
Reinhold Neibuhr, 1892-1971
Psychotherapist Thom Rutledge says the mathematical equation for pain equals the difference between expectation and performance over time. Although the tenets of Buddhism suggest that suffering is inevitable, it is notable that suffering increases in reaction to our resistance to reality as it is, rather than as we wish it would be. While we cannot avoid all suffering, we can choose acceptance as a path to reduce some degree of pain.
Acceptance does not mean approval. It means relinquishing resistance to a reality you cannot change. Then, possibly, the energy that is freed can be used to bring changes where you can. For example, one’s suffering for the suffering of others does not aid them, unless it is transformed into direct action to ease that original suffering.
Today, experiment with accepting at least the minor realities, and use your efforts to affect what is within your power . Rather than griping about the rain, bring an umbrella. Rather than lamenting others' bad behaviors, contribute where you can to the general good.
Today's website: When It is Hot, Be Completely Hot; When it is Cold, Be Completely Cold, by Rev. Kenrei Bassis
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